Tonight’s episode of The Gentle Ledger drifts through a calm, confidence-tinged rise in U.S. markets, as the Dow approaches fresh highs and the S&P 500 inches to within a whisper of its record. We explore strong showings from Microchip Technology and American Eagle Outfitters, the quiet rotation away from megacap tech, and the renewed optimism stirred by softer jobs data and rising expectations of imminent Fed rate cuts. Overseas, markets in Asia and Europe echo the U.S. uplift with gentle gains, while bonds, gold, and oil settle into a composed balance. Bitcoin climbs back above $90,000, offering a soft rebound in the digital-asset space. The episode closes with a reflective look at whether today’s relief signals a more stable path ahead or simply a brief clearing in December’s shifting landscape. Breathe deeply, settle in, and let the day’s markets unwind into evening calm.